Obituaries & Guestbook

Eric Wagner, age 82, passed away peacefully at his home on August 4, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Sheboygan, WI, Eric grew up in Cleveland, WI, where he fostered precious childhood memories and developed his strong work ethic working in the family business, Wagner Yards.
Eric graduated from Central High School in Sheboygan and attended the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse. He then joined the Air Force, serving in Germany.
Eric married the love of his life, Elaine Gries, on October 16, 1965. Their enduring partnership was a testament to their love and commitment.
Eric had a distinguished career, beginning as a computer operator at Vollrath Company. He then became a dispatcher for Van Der Vaart Concrete before taking on roles at Wagner Home Center and eventually becoming the President of Sheboygan Concrete Supply. His expertise in the brick and masonry industry is found in many buildings in Wisconsin. During his retirement, Eric found joy in being a greeter at Walmart, where he continued to share his warmth and friendliness with the community.
Eric was actively involved in his community as a Scout Master for the Boy Scouts. He also volunteered at Sheboygan Aurora Memorial Hospital and was a member of the Moose Lodge, American Legion, and Immaculate Conception Parish. He was a former member of the Sheboygan County Home Builders and the Cedar Lake Improvement Association.
His hobbies included gardening, carpentry, biking, and playing sheepshead. He was an avid fan of the Packers, Brewers, and Kingsbury. Most importantly, Eric cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, which included watching their sporting events in Wisconsin and Georgia. In addition, he enjoyed his time at Cedar Lake where he created wonderful friendships and memories.
Eric is survived by his beloved wife of 58 wonderful years Elaine, his children Gregg (Kelly) Wagner and Jill (John) Moore, and his grandchildren Allison Wagner, Derek (Courtney) Wagner, Cole Moore, and Kate Moore. He was eagerly anticipating the arrival of his first great-grandchild in February 2025.
He is also survived by his brothers Peter (Linda) Wagner and Paul (Becky) Wagner as well, as his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Judy Gries, Alice (Michael) Liebelt, Dorothy Grossheim (Greg Unertl), Gerald Gries (Carolyn O’Leary), and Anne (Patrick) Sharpe.
Eric was preceded in death by his parents Edwin and Mathilda Wagner, his father and mother-in-law Melvin and Lucille Gries, and his brother-in-law Eugene Gries.
Family and friends may gather at the Reinbold-Novak Funeral Home, 1535 S. 12th Street, Sheboygan on Friday August 9, 2024, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Visitation will continue at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church 1305 Humboldt, Sheboygan on Saturday August 10, 2024, from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 11:00 a.m. Fr. Paul Fliss will officiate. VFW Post #9158 will perform Military Honors immediately following Mass. Private family burial will take place in the St. George Cemetery in Cleveland.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to those who supported Eric on his final journey, including his family, friends and neighbors, Sharon Richardson Community Hospice, and Embrace Care.
Eric will be remembered for his kindness, dedication, and the profound impact he had on those who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories and a loving family who will miss him dearly.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial fund has been established in Eric’s name.